The Atlanta Vibe has made a bold statement in the 2024 Pro Volleyball Federation Draft, selecting Nebraska opposite Merritt Beason as the first overall pick.
Beason, known for her exceptional talent and dynamic style of play, joins the league’s top-seeded team after a strategic trade with the Indy Ignite.
To secure the No. 1 pick, the Vibe traded their 2nd and 9th overall picks, along with obtaining Indy’s 2025 third-round pick.
Beason steps into the nation’s premier professional women’s volleyball league, which achieved record-breaking attendance and national broadcast success during its inaugural season.
“We knew trading with Indy was a bold move, especially parting with our ninth overall pick, but it was a strategic decision we firmly believe will pay off,” said Atlanta Vibe head coach Kayla Banwarth.
“This trade not only strengthens our roster for the upcoming season, but it also positions us for long-term success while giving us a significant advantage with Indy’s third-round pick next year.”
Beason’s collegiate resume speaks for itself. The 2023 AVCA Region Player of the Year earned a spot on the All-Big Ten First Team after an impressive season, posting 455 kills—the ninth most in a single season for Nebraska—and adding 106 blocks.
As a senior captain for the Huskers, she played 217 sets and averaged 3.38 kills per set, contributing to Nebraska’s outstanding 66-3 record during her tenure.
Before transferring to Nebraska, Beason made her mark at the University of Florida.
There, she earned All-SEC First Team honors in 2022 and was named to the All-Freshman Team in 2021.
Over her time with the Gators, she averaged 0.765 blocks per set and amassed 565 kills. In 2023, she led Nebraska to an NCAA Championship appearance, capping her season with an impressive 4.496 points per set.
“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Merritt Beason to the Atlanta Vibe family,” said Colleen Craig, owner of the Atlanta Vibe.
“With her experience at the highest collegiate level, we believe she’s the right fit to help us push for a title in the coming seasons.”
Beason, a key leader during Nebraska’s deep postseason runs, brings invaluable experience and skill to the Vibe’s roster.
The team has four remaining picks in the draft and is poised to add even more top-tier collegiate talent.
Sharing her enthusiasm for the next chapter of her career, Beason said, “This is an incredible opportunity to play for such a dynamic team with a winning culture.
With their success last year motivating them, I am ready to gear up and strive for that championship title.”
